Why do we need your help?

Existing for almost three-quarters of a century has not been easy. Since it’s founding, Gymkana has been a self-funded and self-supported non-profit in an ever-changing University landscape. Practice space, costumes, equipment and supplies were hard to come by and only earned through hard work and dedication. In moments when it seemed that there was no future for the program, its coaches, alumni and members stood up and fought to save it.

Having spent years looking forward to ensure its survival, Gymkana has never had the funds available to effectively archive and preserve its own history. The Launch UMD program offers the chance to remedy this by funding the processing of the Troupe’s massive archive collection, digitizing its content, and sharing it with the World.

The initial cost of Gymkana’s project is approximately $25,000. Working with the University Archives, the funds raised through Launch UMD will go to beginning the process of cataloging and digitizing this collection of documents, memorabilia, videos, and roughly 15,000 photographs and 35mm slides. Once completed, this will allow for the creation of an online archive that will make Gymkana’s historical content accessible to everyone. Preserving Gymkana’s historical foundation will allow it to continue to shape and inspire future members and future audiences.

For the thousands of alumni of the 70-year-old program, the University of Maryland community, and generations of families and friends, this extensive and accessible historical content would be a truly cherished gift.

How can you help?

This Launch Campaign will go live from Monday Feb. 8, 2016 (6:00AM EST) - Wednesday Mar. 9, 2016 (5:59AM EST). During this time, donations will be accepted at www.launch.umd.edu/Gymkana70.